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CHS boys pick up two wins

After a tough three-game losing streak, the Catasauqua boys basketball team rebounded nicely with two Colonial League wins.

The Rough Riders defeated Salisbury 67-52 on Saturday, Jan. 27 and Southern Lehigh 52-49 on Tuesday, Jan. 30. Catty holds a one-game lead over Moravian Academy at the top of the Colonial League’s West Division.

Senior guard Isiah Graves continued his scoring tear through the league. The area’s leading scorer dropped 27 points against Salisbury and 30 against Southern Lehigh.

Known for his dribble penetration and ability to finish around the rim, Graves showcased another part of his game to the Falcons. He tied his season-high with four made 3-pointers.

The Rough Riders led Salisbury by 21 points at halftime. Coach Eric Snyder was encouraged by the way his team maintained its focus in the second half and closed out the game.

“It was nice to be able to get a comfortable lead and hold on to that lead throughout the game,” Snyder said.

Catty will be short-handed as it closes the regular season. Senior Cullen Bond has been ruled out for the remaining regular season contests because of a chest issue, and his status for the postseason is in doubt.

“He (Bond) has come up big for us down the stretch in several games this year, especially with his foul shooting and his ability to drive to the basket and make things happen,” Snyder said.

Coach Snyder will rely on a collective effort to fill Bond’s role in the lineup. Sophomore Robert Oppidasano hit a big 3-pointer in the fourth quarter against Southern Lehigh and senior Miguel Hernandez scored a season-high 12 points against Salisbury.

After scoring 17 points against Salisbury, Snyder is hoping sophomore guard Jaylen Green can continue to improve his offense as the Rough Riders prepare for the playoffs.

“If he (Green) can continue to score at a 12-to-15 point per game clip, that will make us much more effective and tougher to defend,” Snyder said.

Catty closes the regular season with a trip to Moravian Academy on Friday, Feb. 2, then hosts Northwestern on Wednesday, Feb. 7.